SHE may have got the biggest cheer of the race, but Olympic star Tanni Grey-Thompson was denied a spot on the winner's podium at the 800 metres wheelchair final.

Tanni came in fourth in a creditable time of 1.56 seconds - one and a half seconds behind Aussie Eliza Jane Stankovic. Canadian Chantal Petitclerc won the race in 1.52.93 seconds.

But Tanni - who celebrated her 33rd birthday last Friday - said she was delighted with how she had performed and said it was a good result for her.

"I was really pleased. I knew I had to go a lot faster than in the semi final and I don't think I could have done anymore,'' she said.

"I would be lying if I said I was not a bit disappointed to miss out on a medal, but Chantal was magnificent''.

Tanni admitted to being a bit nervous in the run up to the race, but said the support of the crowd helped her overcome her jitters.

"I was nervous before the race - I was sick twice but at least that's a bit better than before the semi-final when I was sick eight times,'' she said. "But when I came out onto the track and heard the shouts of the crowd when my name was called it was absolutely fantastic.

"Manchester has given me a great Games - I feel like I'm a local, the support I have received has been wonderful. It's just been amazing''.

Winner Chantal Petitclerc said the importance of being officially recognised by the 2002 Games as part of the national team could not be understated.

She added: "I'm very happy that finally, after all these years, I've got an official gold medal - I've waited so long.

"I wanted to win this race badly. I knew I had to be smart, but I knew I could do it.''